Prayers in Zambia

Kenya and Zambia were probably the two most difficult countries for me. Perhaps, because I had now been away from my family and home for over 50 days, but I believe they are just plain tough countries! Tough places to live which makes for strong people. And we met some amazing, strong people at a sweet, little school in Zambia.

One of my favorite stops was the Ding Dong School in Lusaka. It was a small, humble school filled with beautiful children.  It was painted a bright, cheerful blue and had a nice yard in front. The children wore very modest but mostly matching uniforms. The school administrator, Webster, was a remarkable man. His strength, enthusiasm and diligence was inspiring!

The highlight of the visit was when the children sang for us. As I watched them my heart was overwhelmed. Tears filled my eyes. Not because I felt sorry for them. I did not. They would not want me to. They were happy. They were proud of their school. They are strong! They were thrilled to give us a grand tour, sing and perform for us. But I was overcome with feelings of gratitude for the blessings I have – for the blessings my children have. My children get to attend a school with computers, TV’s, desks and a library filled with more books then they could ever read! My children get to take music lessons and play sports. My son gets to play basketball at BYU. Why? Why are we so blessed? 

I don’t know all the answers. I don’t know if the answers matter or make a difference. What I do believe matters, and I believe this with all my heart, is whether or not we make a difference. What do we do with the blessings we have been given? And so, I was so very thankful to be there with these beautiful children for a day.

They finished their little performance with a prayer. One darling girl led the other students “I will say what Jesus say.” The students repeated “I will say what Jesus say!” She went on “I will do what Jesus do.” They repeated “I will do what Jesus do!” That’s what it’s all about!  It doesn’t matter where we live. What matters is we do our best to do the right thing. This truth was powerfully confirmed to my heart that day.

That is why I do my best to find opportunities to do Humanitarian work. I want to do what Jesus wants me to do. I want to help children. I want to help others. I want to, in my own small way, make a difference in the world. 

We are so blessed. God watches over His children wherever they are. I end this Blog with the words of the children in Zambia “Thank you Lord for everything!”